LOVE them, or hate them? Here's the picture most motorists will be interested in seeing - the shape of the new BMW 3 saloon.
The 3 Series BMW is one of the most high profile cars on the road. The completely new 3 Series is similar to the new 5 and not a dramatic departure in shape from the existing 3 Series.
When that was launched in 1990, it made the previous 3 Series look Lada shaped.
The present 3 Series won't look nearly so dated, when the new 3 hits the road in the Autumn of 1998. That is important to the image of BMW and re-sale values.
No doubt, BMW hopes that these pictures will re-assure existing and future buyers of the current model shape. Existing 3 Series coupe, Touring, convertible and compact models are all expected to keep their shape after the debut of the 3 Series saloon.
Although many questions remain unanswered, these pictures make a statement that BMW intends to lead this sector of the market despite being chased by Audi, Volvo, Peugeot, Alfa and Rover, to name a few.
"The new 3 Series is a true successor to its forebears." promise BMW. The body will be slightly larger with more space for passengers. It will boast a variety of hi-tech features, presently reserved for cars in the upper luxury category.
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